Last Updated on September 30, 2015 2:30 pm
Various types of telephone scams occur year round but several reports from members have been received recently. Many times, the caller demands immediate payment over the telephone and threatens to disconnect their electricity if the member doesn’t comply.
Telephone scams such as this are becoming increasingly common. The cooperative warns members to be aware of this type of fraudulent activity and to take steps to protect their identity, personal information and money. The cooperative recommends the following tips:
- If someone calls asking for immediate payment on your electric bill, don't give out your personal information! This includes your Blue Ridge Electric account number, your banking information, social security number or any other personal information.
- If you’re suspicious or uneasy about the caller, feel free to end the call and immediately call Blue Ridge Electric at a number you know to belong to the cooperative to discuss any concerns about your account, any time of the day or night. Don't trust a telephone number a caller gives you! Instead, keep your local Blue Ridge Electric office number handy: Caldwell: 828-754-9071; Watauga: 828-264-8894; Ashe: 336-846-7138; Alleghany: 336-372-4646 or toll free: 800-451-5474.
- You can also set up secure, 24/7 online account access at www.BlueRidgeEMC.com.
- Always report fraudulent calls to your local law enforcement authority as well as to Blue Ridge Electric.
